Orna Therapeutics, Inc. is a Watertown-based biotechnology startup on a mission to create therapies for diseases inaccessible to existing approaches. Built on novel circular RNA technology developed at MIT, Orna is leading the next wave of RNA therapeutics with our best-in-class expression and delivery platform.

We are seeking an exceptional Discovery Biology Co-op to join our team. This team member will learn and contribute to multiple aspects of in vivo model development and execution to evaluate our novel panCAR platform in various animal models. The position will report to a Scientist in the Discovery Biology team. An ideal candidate will possess strong oral and written communication, demonstrate excellent collaboration and interpersonal skills, and be curious and self-motivated.

Responsibilities

Work with other team members to process and analyze tissues from in vivo studies evaluating panCAR platform across multiple disease states.
Evaluate panCAR constructs in vitro with primary human T cells.
Assist in the isolation of primary human T cells from leukopaks for in vivo and in vitro studies
Responsible for hands-on assistance with good lab practices (ie inventory creation and maintenance; lab organization and safety compliance; equipment tracking, maintenance and service issues; etc)
Help maintain inventory of primary cells and cancer cell lines using an electronic lab notebook.
Maintain an accurate and timely electronic notebook record of performed studies and communicate scientific findings through discussions and presentations.
Participate in solving technical problems in a logical and rationale manner.

Qualifications

Undergraduate or graduate student in biology, biochemistry, biotechnology or a related field.
Ideal candidate will have previous exposure to working in BSL2 setting, conversant in sterile culture techniques, with mammalian primary cells and cell lines.
Excited and motivated to explore opportunities in the biotech field and gain experience in experimentation with various mouse models, including humanized mice.
Must be self-motivated, detail oriented, and perform activities with effective time management.
Ideal candidate will contribute to a positive and exciting work environment, contributing to a strong, entrepreneurial, and creative culture.
Detail oriented and self-motivated, willingness to take on new challenges.
Effective written and oral communication skills.

Why work at Orna?

In addition to working alongside bright and hardworking colleagues, you’ll have the opportunity to experience an array of benefits throughout your time with us, including:

Invitations to company outings and social events
Opportunities to meet with our Executive and Management teams
Participation in department specific and organization wide meetings and trainings
Various personal and professional development opportunities
Transportation or parking expenses
Company swag
Coverage under MA Sick Time and MA Paid Family and Medical Leave
Paid holidays, except company shutdowns, and two days of vacation, eligible after a 90-day probationary period

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Individuals seeking employment at Orna Therapeutics are considered without regards to race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, marital status, ancestry, physical or mental disability, veteran status, gender identity, or sexual orientation.

#LI-DNI